CROQUET.

Taranaki Daily News, 6 November 1922, Page 5

CROQUET.

NEW PLYMOUTH CLUB. OPENING OF NEW LAWS. Saturday was a red-letter day In the annals of the New Plymouth Croquet Club, as it marked a definite period in the progress of this sport and the New Plymouth Club. In the past croquet was played on the Vivian Street tennis-courts, but the number of tennisplayers increased to such an extent that there was no room for the two games. Faced with the necessity of providing new courts, the Indies were fortunate In securing a beautiful site on the banks of the Te Henui River. Although only laid down this year, the green proved remarkably true and the grass well grown and even. The large attendance on Saturday, when the lawns were opened, augured well -for the success of the club. The president (Mrs. Courtenay) apologised for the unavoidable absence of Mr. and Mrs. C. H. Burgess, and extended a heart' welcome to visitors and new members. Las - . •'«’ they had found themselves without a oov.i to play on, but the situation had been saved by the kindly action of Mrs. H. Greig, who lent th« club the old bowling green. Here a. very successful season was enjoyed, and some players reached a high standard of proficiency. Miss M. Norman had won the Taranaki championship, and another member (Mrs. J. P. Harrison) had been runner-up. They 'had to thank the many people who had assisted by taking up debentures and contributing to the success of the venture, and it would be impossible to name them all. Messrs. W. H. Gook, J. P. Harrison and Allan Waters, however, deserved special mention, as they had been indefatigable in helping. Mrs. Courtenay concluded by wishing the club every success for the coming season. , t As there had been no closing ceremony last year, prizes were distributed to Mrs. J. P. Harrison (winner of handicap singles), Mrs. W J. Elliott and Mrs. C. S. Curds (handicap doubles), and Mrs. W. H. Cook (winner of the American tournament). Mrs. Harrison also won the club championship, but generously handed tlic prize-money back to the club. in declaring the green open for the season, the Mayor (Mr. F E. WUson) congratulated the ladies upon their pleasant surrounding* and the number of new members. A progressive step had been taken, and he prophesied continued prosperity in the future. He then called upon the Mayoress to strike the first ball. Prior to dispensing the dainty afternoon tea, provided by a committee of ladies, the secretary (Mrs. A. Waters) presented a beautiful bouquet to the Mayoress. The Mayor then called for three cheers for the club, which were enthusiastically taken up. Golf croquet occupied the attention of the ladles during the afternoon. Miss G. McKellar and Mrs. A. H. Hawkins being the winners.